Government issues Technical report on Precarious Work and Economically Inactive Survey

By Rachel Ellis, Partner & Regional ER Manager

The Government has published a technical report setting out findings from the Precarious Work and Economically Inactive Survey, commissioned to support the development of the Employment Rights Act 2025 (ERA) and ongoing reforms to workplace rights. The research examined the experiences of workers in low-paid and insecure employment, as well as people who are out of work but wish to return to employment. 

The survey focused on workers facing insecure working arrangements, including those on zero-hours contracts, agency and temporary contracts, low-income self-employed people and individuals experiencing significant fluctuations in earnings, including those who are ‘under employed’ as they could work more than the hours they can obtain. It also gathered evidence from economically inactive people who want to re-enter the labour market, including those with health conditions, disabilities or caring responsibilities. 

According to the report, the research was designed to measure the impact of uncertain hours and earnings, alongside the financial costs associated with insecure work. The findings are intended to inform the implementation of employment law reforms, including proposals affecting zero-hours contracts in the ERA and wider measures aimed at improving security and predictability at work. 

The report data suggested that of those surveyed on a low income:

• 35% of workers on insecure contracts would prefer a permanent job but have been unable to secure one.
• 20% of those surveyed were on zero-hours contracts, with many others on temporary, casual or fixed-term arrangements.
• 41% had experienced a loss of earnings in the previous four weeks due to problems with their work situation
• 29% report difficulties affording suitable housing because of their work situation.

The publication comes shortly before the deadline in the ongoing consultation on measures linked to zero-hours and low hours working arrangements. As per the above, the survey has provided policymakers with updated evidence on the realities faced by workers in precarious employment.

For trade unions and worker representatives, the report highlights the continuing importance of tackling insecurity at work and improving protections for those in the most vulnerable forms of employment. 

The report can be accessed here.